Brooklyn Brings Families Together with Center for Special Needs Children
Source: Extreme Kids and Crew
A jump in the ball pit, enjoying the bubble tube and relaxing in the lava lounge? Yes, please! For busy families in Brooklyn looking for great spaces for special needs children, this is the place for you. Born out of parent’s needs to find great sensory-friendly spaces for their children, Extreme Kids and Crew invites you to be a part of their play space, community, workshops, and creative programming. While it is not directly a source for individual speech therapy, a variety of therapists consult and get involved with Extreme Kids and Crew regularly. This center is open and accessible to all families of children with disabilities regardless of income, background, nationality, disability, etc. Children with autism, down syndrome, physical handicaps or any other special needs are welcome!
The mission of this non-profit collaboration of arts, theatre, and community is to “Combat the stress and isolation faced by children with disabilities and their families through play, arts and movement programming, partnerships with cultural and therapeutic institutions, parent meet-ups and more.” Programming is not just for children, but for families looking to build relationships, share information and feel supported. The center was born in January of 2011, with the hard work of founder Eliza Factor. The Extreme Kids and Crew operations began by offering arts and movement classes to children with disabilities. Classes grew to workshops, parties, play-dates and a parent education series in the evenings.
Today, the space is filled with therapeutic equipment and toys for parents and children to enjoy together. Try dropping in on a Sunday free play from 12-4pm, Space No. 1 is open to members and non-members alike. Non-members pay $10 for one child, $5 for siblings. No appointment needed! The space is located at: the Co-op School 40 Brevoort Place Brooklyn, NY 11216. When the weather warms, try incorporating a family bike ride for even more activity.
Source: Extreme Kids and Crew
Membership is open to all families and helps include parents in the decision-making, new programs, fundraising and outreach. Options include: cooperative family member ($50-200 depending on income and 8 hours labor), organizational member ($400+) for therapists and others using the space, family member ($350) and member of the choir ($100, long distance).
As a therapist, it’s hard to find places like this to recommend to parents. A place where speech and occupational therapy tools aren’t just available for an hour-long session. Here, you can embrace the messy art projects and jump to your heart’s desire. If you’re looking for family friendly events in Brooklyn, be sure to follow their calendar of events.
This Sunday, Extreme Kids Extreme Challenges is hosting a fantastic family friendly event in NYC for children with special needs, the second annual “Special Day for Special Kids at the New York Transit Museum.” Special needs families are invited to visit the Transit Museum for free and will have exclusive use of the Museum for the first hour, from 10am to 11am. Games, art projects and musical performances offered between 10am and 2pm. Too much excitement? Try the quiet room available for breaks.
Additional upcoming events include: music therapy classes, Needs Wants and Wishes Workshop and Dance and Movement. Check out the online events calendar for more information!
